The DNEG Group, a prominent provider of visual effects technologies for Hollywood's biggest productions, has secured a significant $200 million strategic investment from investors in Abu Dhabi. This financial boost will accelerate the development of Brahma, a newly launched company within the DNEG Group that is focused on creating AI-powered CGI tools designed to streamline the visual effects creation process. Leveraging over 25 years of visual effects data, Brahma’s innovative solutions aim to generate stunning, photo-real visual effects.
The investment from United Al Saqer Group (UASG) elevates DNEG's valuation to over $2 billion. Namit Malhotra, Chair and CEO of DNEG, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with UASG, the launch of Brahma, and the success of our content creation platform are all propelled by the strength of our technology. We are reshaping our business model to emerge as a leader in high-end solutions globally, raising the standard in storytelling through advanced technology and creative capabilities.”
DNEG is renowned for its contributions to critically acclaimed films such as “Oppenheimer,” “Blade Runner 2049,” and “Interstellar.” The company also served as the lead visual effects partner for the recent blockbuster “Dune: Part Two.” Headquartered in London, DNEG encompasses several entities, including Prime Focus Technologies, which specializes in cloud-based software and AI technology, and Prime Focus Studios, responsible for content and intellectual property investments.
Looking ahead, DNEG aims to transform from a provider of visual effects services into a comprehensive content production and AI-powered technology partner across various sectors. As production budgets for VFX-heavy films continue to climb, with recent projects like “Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One” surpassing $300 million due to high costs associated with stunts and effects, AI-driven CGI tools, such as those in Brahma’s pipeline, promise to help filmmakers manage expenses while achieving realistic visual effects.
Prabhu Narasimhan, the executive chair of Brahma, noted the company's mission to assist studios in delivering their creative visions more efficiently and cost-effectively. “In the coming months, we will strengthen our leadership team at Brahma by integrating top-tier technology and AI expertise with seasoned visual effects professionals, making our solutions accessible to all storytellers.”
With the financial backing from UASG, DNEG plans to establish an office and a visual experience hub in Abu Dhabi. This initiative aims to foster a dynamic content production ecosystem within the Middle East. Nabil Kobeissi and Edouard Zard from UASG will join DNEG’s board of directors, underscoring the strategic nature of this partnership.
“This collaboration not only accelerates the development of Brahma, our pioneering AI-powered CGI creator, but also showcases Abu Dhabi’s role as a global hub for content creation and distribution under Malhotra’s leadership,” stated Nabil Kobeissi, CEO of UASG.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chair of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, added, “By launching a new visual experience hub in Abu Dhabi, we are not only generating numerous job opportunities but also enhancing our ecosystem to support high-tech industries and creative excellence. This initiative reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s position as a favorable destination for innovative investments, visionary enterprises, and a vibrant environment where creativity and technology converge.”
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